Lip Filler Aftercare: Ensuring the Best Results

Full lips are a highly sought-after feature that often fades with age. Lip fillers offer a safe and effective way to regain that plumpness. However, proper aftercare is crucial for the best results and a smooth recovery.

What are Lip Fillers?

Lip fillers are dermal fillers that contain hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body. The substance fades as we age, reducing the plump, smooth appearance we have as young adults. Lip fillers are injected directly into the lips with minute dermal needles to help you regain the elasticity and fullness of youth.

What Side Effects Can You Expect?

While the FDA has approved lip fillers, it is still normal to experience some side effects within hours of getting lip fillers. It is also possible for the side effects to continue showing up for a few weeks. The most common side effects include:

• Bruising
• Itching
• Pain
• Rashes
• Redness
• Swelling

When Are Side Effects Serious?

If you experience the following side effects, the FDA recommends that you should visit a doctor to prevent possible complications.

• Severe swelling accompanied by intense pain
• Changes in skin color, which may be a sign of vascular occlusion
• Bumps developing around the mouth
• Cold sore outbreaks

To avoid these side effects, ensure that you let your injector know if you’ve ever struggled with cold sores and be sure to follow their aftercare instructions.

What To Do After Lip Fillers

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is vital for your body’s natural healing process, which is an essential part of post-filler recovery. Many lip fillers function by binding with the water in your body, so drinking ample amounts of water can help the filler integrate properly.

Apply Ice

To reduce swelling and discomfort, you can use cold compresses. Avoid putting ice directly on the skin, as ice can stick to your skin and exacerbate pain. If you don’t have ice packs, you can wrap a thin, soft cloth around some ice cubes and hold it to your mouth. This is recommended for at least two days after getting lip fillers.

Keep Your Head Elevated

For at least a week, you need to avoid sleeping on your face. Any pressure on your lips can cause pain and swelling as well as possibly disrupting the healing process. Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling and ensure that the filler settles correctly.

What To Avoid After Lip Fillers

Alcohol

Alcohol is a blood-thinning agent that can cause inflammation, which can be especially painful after lip fillers. Avoid alcohol for at least two days to avoid intense bruising and swelling on and around your mouth.

Touching Your Lips and Kissing

Lip fillers are administered via injection, so the tiny punctures need to heal fully before bacteria is introduced to the area. When you kiss people or touch your lips after fillers, you increase the risk of infections, which can cause complications with the fillers settling correctly.

Straws

The movements of your mouth when drinking through a straw can cause pain and even distortion as the lip filler may move around due to the pressure. It’s best to keep your mouth relaxed for at least two to three days after lip fillers.

Smoking and Vaping

As with straws, the shape your mouth makes when pulling on a cigarette or vape can lead to complications with how the filler settles. This can lead to an uneven or lumpy appearance, which can take several months to normalize.

Strenuous Exercise

Vigorous activity causes elevated blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to swelling and bruising after lip fillers. Gentle walks are usually not a problem, but it’s best to avoid any activities that push your heart rate too high.

Food High in Sodium

Salty food can cause painful irritation after lip fillers due to tiny particles entering the injection sites. This can cause itching and swelling. Salt also causes inflammation in the body, which will be even more severe because you will be avoiding exercise.

Flying

The pressure on your body during air travel can drastically increase swelling and bruising. The air can also cause severe dehydration, which can cause complications. As mentioned above, hydration is a vital part of the recovery process. Avoid flying for at least a week to prevent problems.

Wearing Lip Products

Due to the tiny puncture wounds on your lips, wearing lip products like lipstick and lip balm can cause severe infections. Keep your mouth free of any makeup or scented moisturizer to avoid any issues. If you need to use a hydrating lip balm, ensure that there are no artificial scents or colors in the formula.

Conclusion

By following these aftercare instructions, you can ensure that your lips heal properly, and your fillers settle correctly. If you experience any concerning side effects, immediately contact your doctor. With proper care and attention, you will be enjoying your beautiful, full lips within a few weeks.